A Systematic Method of Interconnection Optimization for Dense‐Array Concentrator Photovoltaic System

This paper presents a new systematic approach to analyze all possible array configurations in order to determine the most optimal dense‐array configuration for concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) systems. The proposed method is fast, simple, reasonably accurate, and very useful as a preliminary study before constructing a dense‐array CPV panel. Using measured flux distribution data, each CPV cells’ voltage and current values at three critical points which are at short‐circuit, open‐circuit, and maximum power point are determined. From there, an algorithm groups the cells into basic modules. The next step is <i>I-V</i> curve prediction, to find the maximum output power of each array configuration. As a case study, twenty different <i>I-V</i> predictions are made for a prototype of nonimaging planar concentrator, and the array configuration that yields the highest output power is determined. The result is then verified by assembling and testing of an actual dense‐array on the prototype. It was found that the <i>I-V</i> curve closely resembles simulated <i>I-V</i/> prediction, and measured maximum output power varies by only 1.34%.